Method and apparatus for providing search function in touch-sensitive device

ABSTRACT

A method and apparatus are provided for executing a plurality of applications. Based on receiving a first user input, a first window comprising a plurality of number keys is displayed. Based on a second user input selecting one of the plurality of number keys in the first window, the first window and a second window are displayed together on the display. Based on an application being selected from a list of applications in the second window, the selected application is mapped to the selected number key. After the selected application is mapped, a third user input is received corresponding to the selected number key. In response to receiving the third user input, a first function is performed associated with the selected application. The first function is different from a function associated with another application mapped to another number key of the plurality of number keys.

PRIORITY

This application is a Continuation Application of U.S. application Ser.No. 15/710,486, filed in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) onSep. 20, 2017, which is Continuation Application U.S. application Ser.No. 13/653,989, which was filed in the USPTO on Oct. 17, 2012, now U.S.Pat. No. 9,773,008, issued on Sep. 26, 2017, which claims priority under35 U.S.C. § 119(a) to a Korean patent application filed on Oct. 17, 2011in the Korean Intellectual Property Office and assigned Serial No.10-2011-0105795, the contents of all of which are incorporated herein byreference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to a touch-sensitive devicesupporting a touch-based input and, more particularly, to a method andapparatus for providing a search function by allowing a content searchfunction depending on a user interaction input using a virtual keypad ina touch-sensitive device having a touch screen.

2. Description of the Related Art

As a result of the remarkable growth of digital technologies, a varietyof user devices capable of communication and personal informationprocessing, based on mobility, such as a mobile communication device, aPDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a smart phone, and a tablet PC(Personal Computer), have become increasingly popular. These userdevices have various essential or optional functions, such as a videocall, an electronic diary, a digital camera, an e-mail service, abroadcast reception, a wireless Internet access, a music play, ascheduler, a Social Networking Service (SNS), a messenger, a dictionary,and a game, in addition to traditional inherent functions such as avoice call and a Short Message Service (SMS). Such functions are usuallybuilt-in during the manufacture of device. If necessary, a user caninstall a desired application having a new function by means of downloadthrough any application store.

Applications associated with various functions as mentioned above may beregistered as items such as icons or widgets on a menu screen of userdevice, and executed when a user selects one of items. The number ofsuch applications supported by user devices is rapidly increasing, andusers' desire of using such applications is also increasing. Therefore,the number of items disposed on a menu screen of user device is risingin proportion to a rise in the number of built-in or additionallyinstalled applications. Specifically, items of applications are arrangedon a menu screen of user device.

When a user desires to execute a specific application on a menu screen,it tends to take an inordinate amount of time to find a relevant item.Specifically, since a menu screen of user device contains manyapplications, it becomes difficult to find a desired item and to executea relevant application.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, the present invention is disclosed to address theabove-mentioned problems and/or disadvantages and to offer at least theadvantages described below.

An aspect of the present invention is to provide a method and apparatusfor providing a function of more effective and faster search forcontents in a touch-sensitive device.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a method andapparatus for allowing an easy and fast search for contents in variouslist views offered by a touch-sensitive device.

Still another aspect of the present invention is to a method andapparatus for supporting a dedicated keyboard for a search function in alist view of a touch-sensitive device and also for supporting a contentsearch function based on user interactions using the dedicated keyboard.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to a method and apparatusfor realizing a faster search and selection of items associated with theexecution of applications on a menu screen of a touch-sensitive device.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, an electronicdevice is provided for executing a plurality of applications. Theelectronic device includes a display and a processor. The processor isconfigured to, based on receiving a first user input, display a firstwindow comprising a plurality of number keys on the display. Theprocessor is also configured to, based on a second user input selectingone of the plurality of number keys in the first window, display thefirst window and a second window together on the display. The secondwindow includes a list of applications executable in the electronicdevice. The processor is additionally configured to, based on anapplication being selected from the list of applications in the secondwindow, map the selected application to the selected number key. Theprocessor is further configured to, after the selected application ismapped to the selected number key of the plurality of number keys,receive a third user input corresponding to the selected number key. Theprocessor is also configured to, in response to receiving the third userinput, perform a first function associated with the selectedapplication. The first function is different from a function associatedwith another application mapped to another number key of the pluralityof number keys.

According to a second aspect of the present invention a method of anelectronic device is provided for executing a plurality of applications.Based on receiving a first user input, a first window comprising aplurality of number keys is displayed on a display of the electronicdevice. Based on a second user input selecting one of the plurality ofnumber keys in the first window, the first window and a second windoware displayed together on the display. The second window includes a listof applications executable in the electronic device. Based on anapplication being selected from the list of applications in the secondwindow, the selected application is mapped to the selected number key.After the selected application is mapped to the selected number key ofthe plurality of number keys, a third user input is receivedcorresponding to the selected number key. In response to receiving thethird user input, a first function is performed associated with theselected application. The first function is different from a functionassociated with another application mapped to another number key of theplurality of number keys.

The above methods and apparatus promote a faster and simpler search fordesired items such as applications and content (including messages andmedia files) among items in a list view, due to a selection of only aninitial character corresponding to a desired item using a dedicatedkeyboard provided in the list view. In particular, when selecting one ofthe buttons of the dedicated keyboard, a user can instantly see andselectively execute contents starting with the initial character of theselected button. Therefore, a user can perform a search and execution ofa desired item in one user input action, which enhances the usability ofthe touch-sensitive device.

Additionally, in certain embodiments recently or frequently executeditems may be automatically mapped with specific buttons (e.g., numericalbuttons) of the dedicated keyboard, and related information may also bedisplayed. Therefore, depending on the type of interaction, a user canuse such a specific button as a shortcut button for promptly executingthe recently or frequently executed item or to invoke a search functionbased on the button.

The present invention enhances the accessibility for and usability ofapplications and contents which a user desires to use. Embodiments ofthe present invention realize an optimal environment for an item searchin a touch-sensitive device, thus improving usability, convenience, andcompetitiveness or such a touch-sensitive device.

Another aspect of the invention provides a computer program comprisinginstructions arranged, when executed, to implement a method and/orapparatus in accordance with any one of the above-described aspects. Afurther aspect provides machine-readable storage storing such a program.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other aspects, advantages, and features of certainembodiments of the present invention will become apparent to thoseskilled in the art from the following detailed description taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates the configuration of a touch-sensitive device inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a screen interface for supporting a search functionin a touch-sensitive device in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates screen shots associated with a content search basedon a search-dedicated keyboard in a touch-sensitive device in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates partial screen shots associated with usermanipulations when a single content is found as search results in atouch-sensitive device in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 5 illustrates partial screen shots associated with usermanipulations when several contents are found as search results in atouch-sensitive device in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 6 illustrates partial screen shots associated with usermanipulations on a dedicated keyboard used for a content search in atouch-sensitive device in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 7 illustrates a dedicated keyboard supported by a touch-sensitivedevice in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

FIGS. 8 to 10 illustrate a method for providing a search function usinga dedicated keyboard in a touch-sensitive device in accordance withembodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described more fullywith reference to the accompanying drawings. This invention may,however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construedas limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The principles andfeatures of this invention may be employed in varied and numerousembodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as definedby the appended claims. Although the drawings represent embodiments ofthe invention, the drawings are not necessarily to scale and certainfeatures may be exaggerated or omitted in order to better illustrate andexplain the present invention. Detailed descriptions of well-knownfunctions and structures incorporated herein may be omitted for the sakeof clarity and conciseness.

The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for a functionof a touch-sensitive device that supports a touch-based input, to allowrapid and convenient search and execution of user's desired content in alist view screen for various contents installed or stored therein.

In an embodiment of this invention, contents include variousapplications installed in a touch-sensitive device, data created andstored using applications of a touch-sensitive device. For example, alist view screen may include a menu screen that represents a list ofapplications, a message list screen that represents a list of textmessages; a file list screen that represents a list of media files(e.g., photo files, and video files). Additionally, contents may includeapplications of a menu screen, messages of a message list screen, andmedia files of a file list screen.

FIG. 1 illustrates the configuration of a touch-sensitive device inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 1, a touch-sensitive device includes a touch screen110, a memory unit 140, and a control unit 150. Additionally, thetouch-sensitive device may further include an audio processing unithaving a microphone and a speaker, a digital broadcasting module forreceiving digital broadcasting (e.g., Digital Multimedia Broadcasting(DMB) or Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB)), a camera module for takingstill images and moving images, at least one short-range communicationmodule for supporting a communication function based on a short-rangewireless communication such as Bluetooth communication, Infrared DataAssociation (IrDA) communication, Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID)communication, and Near Field Communication (NFC), an input unit forsupporting an input based on hard keys, a Radio Frequency (RF) modulefor supporting communication functions such as a voice call, a videocall, and a data communication, an Internet module for supporting anInternet access service based on Internet Protocol (IP), and a batteryfor supplying power to the above elements, which are well known in theart and hence their illustrations and descriptions will be omittedherein.

The touch screen 110 is an input and output device that simultaneouslyperforms an input function and a display function, and has a displayunit 120 and a touch detection unit 130. The touch screen 110 displaysvarious list view screens through the display unit 120, and when userinteraction is inputted through the touch detection unit 130, deliversthe interaction input to the control unit 150. Then, as will bediscussed later, the control unit 150 performs a content searchcorresponding to the interaction and outputs a result screen to thedisplay unit 120.

The display unit 120 visually represents a variety of screens associatedwith the operation of the touch-sensitive device. For instance, thedisplay unit 120 may display a lock screen, a home screen, a menuscreen, various list view screens, and respective execution screensrelated to the execution of contents. The display unit 120 may be turnedon or off under the control of the control unit 150 in the idle mode.Particularly, the display unit 120 may display a dedicated keyboard fora content search on a list view screen, as well as search information(e.g., an execution item) related to content searched according to userinteraction through the dedicated keyboard. Screen examples of thedisplay unit 120 will be described later herein.

The display unit 120 may be formed of LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) orany other display device such as LED (Light Emitting Diode), OLED(Organic LED), and AMOLED (Active Matrix OLED). Additionally, whendisplaying the above execution screens, the display unit 120 may supporta screen display in a landscape mode, a screen display in a portraitmode, and an adaptive screen switch display between both modes,depending on rotation or direction of the touch-sensitive device.

The touch detection unit 130 may be placed on the display unit 120 anddetect user interaction inputs (e.g., a touch interaction, a tapinteraction, or a drag interaction) made from a contact on the surfaceof the touch screen 110. When detecting any user interaction on thesurface of the touch screen 110, the touch detection unit 130 detectscoordinates of the interaction and delivers the detected coordinates tothe control unit 150. Specifically, the touch detection unit 130 detectsan interaction input made by a user, creates a signal associated withthe detected interaction, and transmits the signal to the control unit150. Based on the signal from the touch detection unit 130, the controlunit 150 may perform a particular function corresponding to a region onwhich the interaction occurs. Particularly, the touch detection unit 130may receive a user interaction for a content search from a dedicatedkeyboard provided on a list view screen of the touch-sensitive device.

The memory unit 140 stores a variety of applications and data executedand processed in the touch-sensitive device and may be formed of one ormore non-volatile memories and volatile memories. Specifically, thememory unit 140 may be formed of at least one of ROM (Read Only Memory),flash memory, RAM (Random Access Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive),external hard disk drive, and portable storage medium. The memory unit140 may store permanently or temporarily the OS (Operating System) ofthe touch-sensitive device, programs and data related to input anddisplay control operations using the touch screen 110, programs and datarelated to a search function using a dedicated keyboard of thetouch-sensitive device.

Particularly, the memory unit 140 may store content mapping informationfor respective buttons, execution items for respective contents, etc. inconnection with list view screens, contents, and shortcut buttons of thededicated keyboard. The execution items are shortcut items that invokeselected content such as applications, sent or received messages, ormedia files, and then display an execution screen of the selectedcontent.

The control unit 150 controls the entire operations of thetouch-sensitive device. The control unit 150 may control the operationsrelated to a search function using a dedicated keyboard in a list viewprovided in an embodiment of this invention.

Particularly, while a list view screen is displayed, the control unit150 may control a display of the dedicated keyboard for a content searchin response to user's request. The control unit 150 may perform acontent search within a list view according to any interaction inputbased on the dedicated keyboard. Specifically, using the first letter ofa button selected by user interaction in the dedicated keyboard, thecontrol unit 150 may perform a content search within a list view.

Additionally, the control unit 150 may output search results bycorrelating them with the dedicated keyboard. For example, the controlunit 150 may output at least one execution item associated with one ormore searched contents through a pop-up window on a button selected bythe interaction. In response to a user interaction for an execution itemprovided in the pop-up window, the control unit 150 may control theexecution of content associated with the execution item. An interactiondefined for content execution may be a release of a current interaction(inputted for a content search) from a specific execution item in thepop-up window or a new interaction for selecting another specificexecution item in the pop-up window.

The control unit 150 may register recently executed contents (or userselected contents) per specific button (e.g., numeral button) of thededicated keyboard and control a display of related execution items. Inthis case, the control unit 150 may perform a function of a shortcutbutton or a search function according to the type of interaction made onthe registered button.

For example, when any interaction input less than a predefined time isdetected from a specific button mapped with content, the control unit150 may recognize it as a command of a shortcut button function and thenpromptly execute specific content mapped with the button. Also, when anyinteraction input more than a predefined time is detected from aspecific button mapped with content, the control unit 150 may recognizeit as a command of a search function and then control a content searchbased on character corresponding to the button.

As discussed above, the control unit 150 controls the entire operationsin connection with functions of this invention and detailed descriptionsthereof will be made later herein.

In addition to the above-discussed functions, the control unit 150 maycontrol typical functions of the touch-sensitive device and relatedoperations. For example, when a specific application is executed, thecontrol unit 150 may control the operation thereof and a related screendisplay, may receive input signals corresponding to various touch eventinputs supported in a touch-based input interface and control relatedfunctions, and may control transmission and reception of various databased on wired or wireless communications.

The touch-sensitive device of this invention shown in FIG. 1 may includeany types of electronic devices, multimedia players, and theirapplication equipment, which support functions of this invention. Forexample, including mobile communication terminals based on variouscommunication protocols corresponding to various communication systems,the touch-sensitive device may include tablet PCs (Personal Computers),smart phones, digital cameras, PMPs (Portable Multimedia Players), mediaplayers, portable game consoles, laptop computers, PDAs (PersonalDigital Assistants). A function control method of this invention may beapplied to various touch-based display devices such as digital TV, DS(Digital Signage), LFD (Large Format Display), a laptop computer, etc.

FIG. 2 illustrates a screen interface for supporting a search functionin a touch-sensitive device in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention.

Referring to FIG. 2, the screen interface for supporting a searchfunction may have a list view region 250 and a dedicated keyboard region300. The list view region 250 represents a list of specific contents.The dedicated keyboard region 300 is provided in the list view region250 and represents a dedicated keyboard 350 used for inputtinginteractions for a content search and for offering search results. Thededicated keyboard region 300 may be freely disposed at a lower part, amiddle part, or an upper part of a list view screen according to usersetting.

Additionally, the screen interface may include a search item 200 forinvoking and displaying the dedicated keyboard 350 in the dedicatedkeyboard region 300 on the list view screen. Alternatively, instead ofoffering the search item 200 through the screen interface, it ispossible to provide a hardware function key for performing a function(i.e., invocation and display of the dedicated keyboard 350) of thesearch item 200 to any position (e.g., a side) of the touch-sensitivedevice. In this case, the search item 200 may be removed from the screeninterface.

The dedicated keyboard 350 may include buttons 310 for creating a searchword corresponding to a user interaction, a hiding item 320 for hidingthe dedicated keyboard 350 from the list view screen, and a microphoneitem 330 for supporting a voice-based content search. The dedicatedkeyboard 350 is specialized for content search and execution, and hencemay have a layout of alphanumeric buttons only (to which numerical,alphabetical, and/or vernacular symbols are assigned) without normalcontrol buttons (e.g., buttons of backspace, enter, space, shift, andcaps lock). In some cases, the hiding item 320 and the microphone item330 may also be removed from the dedicated keyboard 350.

The dedicated keyboard 350 may represent one or more execution itemsoffered as search results and correlated with a specific button selectedby a user interaction. Also, depending on user setting, the dedicatedkeyboard 350 may represent execution items for selected contents (e.g.,recently executed contents or user selected contents) on specificbuttons (e.g., numeral buttons).

As discussed above, the screen interface for supporting a searchfunction is composed of a content list view that shows contents in apage or list form, and the dedicated keyboard 350 for a content searchwithin the list view. The dedicated keyboard 350 may appear in thecontent list view when a user selects the search item 200 provided onthe list view screen.

When a user selects one of the alphanumeric buttons 310 of the dedicatedkeyboard 350, contents starting from a character (e.g., alphabet,number, vernacular, and vernacular initial phoneme) assigned to theselected button may be searched. As a result, execution items for N (Nis natural number) numbers of searched contents may be provided througha pop-up window on the selected button. Then a user may select one ofthe execution items in order to execute desired content.

FIG. 3 illustrates screen shots associated with a content search basedon a search-dedicated keyboard in a touch-sensitive device in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 3, as shown in stage 301, a list view screen isdisplayed containing a plurality of contents, each of which may be anapplication, a message, or a media file. Therefore, a list view maycorrespond to a list view of applications, a list view of messages, or alist view of media files.

In this stage 301, a user may input an interaction for selecting thesearch item 200 that is provided at a part of the list view screen,which interaction may be a tap type interaction inputted on the searchitem 200.

When any interaction input is detected through the search item 200during a display of a list view, the touch-sensitive device may displaythe dedicated keyboard 350 on the list view as shown in stage 303. Thededicated keyboard 350 may be composed of alphanumeric buttons.

In this stage 303, a user may input a search interaction for searchingcontents. For example, in the dedicated keyboard 350, a user may selecta specific alphanumeric button to which the first character of desiredcontent is assigned. This search interaction may be a tap typeinteraction by which a specific button is selected or released, or atouch type interaction by which selection of a specific button ismaintained. These types of a search interaction may be determinedaccording to user setting. Herein, it is presumed that a searchinteraction is a touch type. Therefore, a search interaction may bemaintained on a specific alphanumeric button of the dedicated keyboard350.

When a search interaction is detected through a selected alphanumericbutton of the dedicated keyboard 350, the touch-sensitive device mayperform a content search based on a specific character assigned to theselected button. For example, the touch-sensitive device may perform asearch for contents starting from the character of the selected buttonamong all contents in the list view. Then the touch-sensitive device mayoutput search information related to searched contents through a pop-upwindow on the dedicated keyboard 350.

For example, if a single content is found, the touch-sensitive devicemay provide an execution item 410 corresponding to the found contentthrough a pop-up window 400 as shown in stage 305. If several contentsare found, the touch-sensitive device may provide execution items 420,430 and 440 corresponding to the found contents through the pop-upwindow 400 as shown in stage 307.

As shown in stage 305, if the only one content is found, the executionitem 410 that allows a prompt execution of the content may be displayedon the pop-up window 400. This execution item 410 may be in icon formand/or a text that identifies the found content.

For example, if a list view is an application list view (e.g., a menuscreen) in which applications are arranged, and if a search interactionis inputted on a button to which character “C” is assigned, the only oneapplication “camera” may exist as applications starting from “C” amongall applications in the list view. In this case, as shown in stage 305,the execution item 410 represented as a combination of icon and textabout the found content “camera” may be displayed through the pop-upwindow 400, which may have a form correlated with the button “C”selected by a search interaction. Alternatively, the pop-up window 400may be located at any other position within the dedicated keyboard 350or at any position in the list view.

Although not illustrated in FIG. 3, when only one content is foundthrough a search, the above-discussed stage 305 may be omitted and thefound content may be directly executed.

As shown in stage 307, if several contents are found, the executionitems 420, 430 and 440 each of which allows a prompt execution ofrelevant content may be displayed on the pop-up window 400. Each ofthese execution items 420, 430 and 440 is in icon and/or text form thatidentifies the found content.

For example, if a list view is an application list view (e.g., a menuscreen) in which applications are arranged, and if a search interactionis inputted on a button to which character “C” is assigned, threeapplications “camera”, “contact” and “car2D” may exist as applicationsstarting from “C” among all applications in the list view. In this case,as shown in stage 307, the execution items 420, 430 and 440 representedas combinations of icon and text about the found contents “camera”,“contact” and “car2D” may be displayed through the pop-up window 400.The pop-up window 400 may have the form correlated with the button “C”selected by a search interaction, or may be located at any otherposition within the dedicated keyboard 350 or at any position in thelist view.

As shown in the above-discussed stages 305 and 307, search results ofcontents may be provided as execution items 410, 420, 430 and 440through the pop-up window 400. Then a user may input a next interactionon one of the execution items in order to execute a desired content. Arelated description will be made later herein.

FIG. 4 illustrates partial screen shots associated with usermanipulations when a single content is found as search results in atouch-sensitive device in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention.

In FIG. 4, presuming that content is one of several applications, thededicated keyboard 350 for searching contents (i.e., applications) isprovided on the list view of applications, and a user interaction isinputted on a “C” button of the dedicated keyboard 350.

Referring to FIG. 4, as shown in stage 401, an interaction for a contentsearch is inputted on the “C” button 310 of the dedicated keyboard 350.In response to the interaction on the “C” button 310, thetouch-sensitive device may search applications starting from character“C” among all applications in the list view. If only one content“camera” is found, the touch-sensitive device may output the executionitem 410 of “camera” through the pop-up window 400 as shown in stage403.

The pop-up window 400 may have the form of speech bubble correlated withthe “C” button 310 as shown in stage 403. While the pop-up window 400 isdisplayed, a search interaction may be maintained on the “C” button.

In order to select the found application “camera” in stage 403, a usermay move the current interaction from the “C” button 310 to theexecution item 410 in the pop-up window 400 as shown in stage 405. Also,in order to execute the “camera” application in stage 405, a user mayrelease the current interaction from the execution item 410.

When detecting a release of interaction on the execution item 410 in thepop-up window 400, the touch-sensitive device may recognize the releaseof interaction as a command to execute the “camera” applicationcorresponding to the execution item 410. Specifically, in response to aninteraction release on the execution item 410, the touch-sensitivedevice may execute the “camera” application corresponding to theexecution item 410 and display a related execution screen. When theexecution screen of the “camera” application is displayed, the dedicatedkeyboard 350 may be removed (i.e., disappears) and the execution screenmay be provided as a full screen.

Meanwhile, although not illustrated in FIG. 4, if only one content isfound through a search, the found content (i.e., an applicationcorresponding to the execution item 410) may be executed in response toa release of interaction from the selected character button in the stateof the above-discussed stage 403.

FIG. 5 illustrates partial screen shots associated with usermanipulations when several contents are found as search results in atouch-sensitive device in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention.

In FIG. 5, presuming that contents are applications, the dedicatedkeyboard 350 for searching contents (i.e., applications) is provided onthe list view of applications, and a user interaction is inputted on a“c” button of the dedicated keyboard 350.

Referring to FIG. 5, as shown in stage 501, an interaction for a contentsearch is inputted on the “C” button 310 of the dedicated keyboard 350.In response to the interaction on the “C” button 310, thetouch-sensitive device may search applications starting from character“C” among all applications in the list view. If three contents “camera”,“contact” and “car2D” are found, the touch-sensitive device may outputthe execution items 420, 430 and 440 of “camera”, “contact” and “car2D”through the pop-up window 400 as shown in stage 503.

The pop-up window 400 may have the form of speech bubble correlated withthe “C” button 310 as shown in stage 503. Also, while the pop-up window400 is displayed, a search interaction may be maintained on the “C”button.

In order to select one of the found applications “camera”, “contact” and“car2D” in stage 503, a user may move the current interaction from the“C” button 310 to a desired one of the execution items 420, 430 and 440in the pop-up window 400 as shown in stage 505. A user may move rightand left the current interaction along a row of execution items so as toselect a desired item. In order to execute a desired application, a usermay release the current interaction from one of the execution items 420,430 and 440.

When detecting a release of interaction on a selected one of executionitems 420, 430 and 440 in the pop-up window 400, the touch-sensitivedevice may recognize the release of interaction as a command to executea particular application corresponding to the selected execution item.Specifically, in response to an interaction release on a selectedexecution item, the touch-sensitive device may execute a particularapplication corresponding to the selected execution item and display arelated execution screen. When the execution screen of the selectedapplication is displayed, the dedicated keyboard 350 may be removed(i.e., disappears) and the execution screen may be provided as a fullscreen.

Although not illustrated in FIG. 5, if more contents are found, the sizeof the pop-up window 400 may be increased, as shown in stages 503 and505. For example, the pop-up window 400 may be expanded to accommodatetwo rows of execution items for the found contents. Specifically, thesize of the pop-up window 400 used for displaying the execution itemsmay be adaptively varied (expanded or reduced) depending on the numberof found contents. The minimum size of the pop-up window corresponds toa size capable of containing the only one execution item.

Although FIGS. 3 to 5 illustrate instances when at least one content isfound, however, the present invention is not limited thereto. If thereis no found content, the pop-up window 400 may not be displayed ordisplayed with a blank region for execution items.

FIG. 6 illustrates partial screen shots associated with usermanipulations on a dedicated keyboard used for a content search in atouch-sensitive device in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention.

Referring to FIG. 6, as shown in stage 601, the dedicated keyboard 350partially has an arrangement of three sequential alphanumeric buttons“C”, “V” and “B”. An interaction for a content search is inputted on the“C” button.

In response to the interaction on the “C” button, the touch-sensitivedevice may search contents starting from character “C” among allcontents (e.g., applications) in the list view. If three contents“camera”, “contact” and “car2D” are found, the touch-sensitive devicemay output the execution items 420, 430 and 440 of “camera”, “contact”and “car2D” by correlating the pop-up window 400 with the “C” button asshown in stage 603.

For another content search (e.g., a search for contents starting fromcharacter “V”), in stage 603, a user may move the current interactionfrom the “C” button to the “V” button as shown in stage 605.

In response to the interaction on the “V” button, the touch-sensitivedevice may search contents starting from character “V” among allcontents (e.g., applications) in the list view. If a single content“video” is found, the touch-sensitive device may output the executionitem 440 of “video” by correlating the pop-up window 400 with the “V”button as shown in stage 605.

As discussed above, when a user inputs an interaction on a selectedalphanumeric button in the dedicated keyboard 350, a search process maybe performed for contents starting from a specific character assigned tothe selected button. Execution items associated with found contents maythen be displayed through a pop-up window on the selected button.

If the current interaction is moved from the selected button to anotherbutton for a new selection while the pop-up window is displayed on thecurrently selected button, the pop-up window correlated with thecurrently selected button may be removed (i.e., a display of searchresults is canceled) and a new pop-up window that contains executionitems found depending on a character of the newly selected button may bedisplayed on the newly selected button.

Meanwhile, instead of moving the current interaction between buttons, anew interaction may be inputted on another button after the currentinteraction is released from the currently selected button.

FIG. 7 illustrates a dedicated keyboard supported by a touch-sensitivedevice in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 7, the dedicated keyboard 350 is composed of aplurality of alphanumeric buttons (to which numerical, alphabetical,and/or vernacular symbols are assigned) for creating a search wordcorresponding to a user interaction. This dedicated keyboard 350 isspecialized for content search and execution, so that alphanumericbuttons only may be arranged without any normal control buttons (e.g.,backspace, enter, space, shift, and caps lock buttons).

Although not illustrated in FIG. 7, the dedicated keyboard 350 mayfurther have a hiding item for hiding the dedicated keyboard 350 and amicrophone item for supporting a voice-based content search.

Additionally, as shown in FIG. 7, the dedicated keyboard 350 mayautomatically register recently executed contents in each numeral buttonby using a specific button (e.g., a numeral button) and display relatedexecution items. This allocation of contents using numeral buttons maybe based on recently executed contents, frequently used contents, oruser defined contents. Specifically, contents may be registered in thenumeral buttons of the dedicated keyboard 350 in the recently executedorder, the frequently used order, or the user defined order. Forexample, contents may be sequentially allocated to numeral buttons “1”,“2”, . . . , “0” in the frequently used order and related executionitems may be respectively represented in the numeral buttons.

When contents are mapped with specific buttons of the dedicated keyboard350, a function of shortcut button or a search function may beselectively performed depending on types of interaction inputted on thebuttons.

For example, when any interaction (e.g., a tap type interaction based oninteraction input and release) is inputted less than a predefined timeon specific buttons, a shortcut button function may be performed topromptly execute a specific content mapped with the selected button.Also, when any interaction (e.g., a long press type interaction or atouch and hold type interaction) is inputted more than a predefined timeon specific buttons, a search function may be performed to control acontent search based on a character corresponding to the selectedbutton.

As discussed above, specific buttons (e.g. numeral buttons) of thededicated keyboard 350 may be used to register particular contents(e.g., recently executed, frequently used, or user defined) therein anddisplay related information (e.g., execution items) thereon. Therefore,a user may use such buttons as shortcut buttons or search invocationbuttons.

FIG. 8 illustrates a method for providing a search function using adedicated keyboard in a touch-sensitive device in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 8, the control unit 150 controls a display of thededicated keyboard 350 for a content search on a list view in step 801.For example, while the list view in which a list of user requestedcontents (e.g., applications, messages, and media files) is displayed,the control unit 150 may control a display of the dedicated keyboard 350in the dedicated keyboard region 300 of the list view in response touser request, such as when detecting a selection of the search item 200in the list view or a selection of a corresponding function key.

The control unit 150 detects an interaction input from one ofalphanumeric buttons that constitute the dedicated keyboard 350 in step803.

When any interaction is detected from one of the alphanumeric buttons ofthe dedicated keyboard 350, the control unit 150 may perform a contentsearch based on the character assigned to that button in step 805. Forexample, the control unit 150 may identify the particular characterassigned to a selected button of the dedicated keyboard 350 and thensearch contents starting from the identified character in the list view.

The control unit 150 outputs the result of content search through thepop-up window 400 in step 807. For example, the control unit 150 mayrepresent the execution items associated with found contents through thepop-up window 400 correlated with the selected button of the dedicatedkeyboard 350. The only one or several contents may be found as searchresults, so that the pop-up window 400 may contain one or more executionitems displayed therein. If no content is found through search, thepop-up window 400 may be provided with a blank or not displayed.

The control unit 150 may detect an interaction input for contentexecution in step 809. For example, when an interaction inputted on aspecific alphanumeric button of the dedicated keyboard 350 is moved toany execution item of the pop-up window 400 and then released, thecontrol unit 150 may recognize it as an interaction for contentexecution based on the execution item. Alternatively, when a newinteraction is inputted on any execution item of the pop-up window 400after a release of a previous interaction on the alphanumeric button,the control unit 150 may recognize it as an interaction for contentexecution based on the execution item.

The control unit 150 may control a content execution process based onthe selected execution item in response to the interaction for contentexecution in step 811. Then the control unit 150 may hide the dedicatedkeyboard 350 and control a display of execution screen for the executedcontent in step 813.

FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate a method for providing a search function usinga dedicated keyboard in a touch-sensitive device in accordance withanother embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the control unit 150 may control a displayof a list view in which a list of user requested contents (e.g.,applications, messages, and media files) is provided in step 901. Whilethe list view is displayed, the control unit 150 may detect a selectionof the search item 200 for invoking a search function in step 903.

When the search item 200 is selected by a user, the control unit 150 mayoutput the dedicated keyboard 350 to be used for searching contents inthe list view in step 905. In this step, the control unit 150 maycontrol the dedicated keyboard 350 to be displayed in the dedicatedkeyboard region 300 partially assigned to the list view. When there isany content mapped with at least one alphanumeric button of thededicated keyboard 350, the control unit 150 may control a display ofany execution item to be used for executing a specific content mappedwith the selected button.

The control unit 150 may detect an interaction input from anyalphanumeric button of the dedicated keyboard 350 in step 907, and thendetermine whether there is content mapped with the detected button instep 909.

If there is any content mapped with the interaction inputted button (Yesbranch of step 909), the control unit 150 may extract that content instep 911. Then the control unit 150 may execute the extracted content instep 913, and control a display of related execution screen in step 915.Depending on the type of interaction inputted on the button, the controlunit 150 may perform a search function to be discussed below rather thanperform a shortcut button function of steps 911 to 915.

If there is no content mapped with the interaction inputted button (Nobranch of step 909), or if the interaction is for a search function eventhough there is any content mapped with the interaction inputted button,the control unit 150 may perform a content search process based on thecharacter assigned to the inputted button in step 917. For example, thecontrol unit 150 may identify the particular character assigned to theinteraction inputted button of the dedicated keyboard 350 and thensearch contents starting from the identified character in the list view.

The control unit 150 may determine whether there is any content foundthrough search in step 919. Specifically, the control unit 150 maydetermine whether contents starting from the identified character existin the list view.

If there is no found content (No branch of step 919), the control unit150 may control an error display in step 921. For example, the controlunit 150 may display the pop-up window 400 with a blank or not displaythe pop-up window 400.

After an error display, the control unit 150 may perform a particularfunction in step 922, such as a content search based on a newalphanumeric button to which a current interaction is moved, orinitialization of the above-discussed search process at a user'srequest.

If there is any found content (Yes branch of step 919), the control unit150 may control a display of the pop-up window 400 containing at leastone execution item based on the found content in step 923.

While the pop-up window 400 is displayed, the control unit 150 maydetermine whether there is a request for executing the content in step925. Specifically, the control unit 150 may determine whether anyinteraction is inputted for a content execution based on the executionitem. For example, when the current interaction inputted on thealphanumeric button is moved to and released from the execution item inthe pop-up window 400, the control unit 150 may recognize it as aninteraction for a content execution.

If there is no request for a content execution (No branch of step 925),the control unit 150 may determine whether an interaction is movedbetween the buttons in step 927. For example, when the pop-up window isdisplayed together with a specific button of the dedicated keyboard 350in response to an interaction inputted on the button, the control unit150 may determine whether the interaction is moved to another button.

If there is no movement of interaction between the buttons (No branch ofstep 927), the control unit 150 may perform a particular function instep 929. For example, when a release interaction is detected on thebutton, the control unit 150 may initialize a search function andcontrol a display of the initial screen (e.g., step 905). Alternatively,if the only one content is found as discussed above, the control unit150 may control a prompt execution of found content in response to arelease of interaction.

If there is a movement of interaction between the buttons (Yes branch ofstep 927), the control unit 150 may cancel a display of the pop-upwindow on the former button and perform a new content search based onthe character of the latter button to which the interaction is moved instep 931. Then the control unit 150 may control a display of a newpop-up window 400 containing, the execution items of newly foundcontents by correlating with the latter button in step 933.

If there is a request for a content execution (Yes branch of step 925),the control unit 150 may control a content execution based on theexecution item in response to such a request in step 935. Then thecontrol unit 150 may hide the dedicated keyboard 350 and control adisplay of execution screen for the executed content in step 937.

Although the above-discussed embodiment is for when contents areapplications and hence a list view of applications is provided, this isonly an example and not to be considered as a limitation of the presentinvention. Alternatively, the present invention may be applied to othertypes of contents that constitute another list view. For example, thetouch-sensitive device may provide a dedicated keyboard for a messagesearch in a message list view, search received or sent messages startingfrom a specific character mapped with a selected button of the dedicatedkeyboard, output search results through a pop-up window, execute aparticular message selected in the pop-up window, and display a relatedexecution screen.

The touch-sensitive device may also provide a dedicated keyboard for amedia file search in a media file list view, search media files startingfrom a specific character mapped with a selected button of the dedicatedkeyboard, output search results through a pop-up window, execute aparticular media file selected in the pop-up window, and display arelate execution screen. Similarly, the present invention may be usedfor a function of content search in various content list views availablefor the touch-sensitive device.

The present invention is described herein with reference to flowchartillustrations of user interfaces, methods, and computer program productsaccording to embodiments of the invention. It will be understood thateach block of the flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks inthe flowchart illustrations, can be implemented by computer programinstructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to aprocessor of a general or special purpose computer, or otherprogrammable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such thatthe instructions, which are executed via the processor of the computeror other programmable data processing apparatus, create means forimplementing the functions specified in the flowchart block(s).

These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computerusable or computer-readable memory that can direct a computer or otherprogrammable data processing apparatus to function in a particularmanner, such that the instructions stored in the computer usable orcomputer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture includinginstruction means that implement the function specified in the flowchartblock or blocks. The computer program instructions may also be loadedonto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to causea series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or otherprogrammable apparatus to produce a computer implemented process suchthat the instructions that are executed on the computer or otherprogrammable apparatus provide steps for implementing the functionsspecified in the flowchart block or blocks.

Each block of the flowchart illustrations may represent a module,segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executableinstructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). Itshould also be noted that in some alternative implementations, thefunctions noted in the blocks may occur out of order. For example, twoblocks shown in succession may be executed concurrently, or in reverseorder, depending upon the functionality involved.

It will be appreciated that embodiments of the present invention can berealized in the form of hardware, software or a combination of hardwareand software. Any such software may be stored in the form of volatile ornon-volatile storage such as, for example, a ROM, whether erasable orrewritable, or in the form of memory such as RAM, memory chips, deviceor integrated circuits or on an optically or magnetically readablemedium such as, for example, a CD, DVD, magnetic disk or magnetic tape.It will be appreciated that the storage devices and storage media areembodiments of machine-readable storage that are suitable for storing aprogram or programs comprising instructions that, when executed,implement embodiments of the present invention.

Accordingly, embodiments provide a program comprising code forimplementing an apparatus or a method as claimed in any one of theclaims of this specification and a machine-readable storage storing sucha program. Still further, such programs may be conveyed electronicallyvia any medium such as a communication signal carried over a wired orwireless connection and embodiments suitably encompass the same.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words“comprise” and “contain” and variations of the words, for example“comprising” and “comprises”, means “including but not limited to”, andis not intended to (and does not) exclude other moieties, additives,components, integers or steps.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, thesingular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires.In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specificationis to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity,unless the context requires otherwise.

Features, integers, characteristics or groups described in conjunctionwith a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the invention are tobe understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment orexample described herein unless incompatible therewith.

It will be also be appreciated that, throughout the description andclaims of this specification, language in the general form of “X for Y”(where Y is some action, activity or step and X is some means forcarrying out that action, activity or step) encompasses means X adaptedor arranged specifically, but not exclusively, to do Y.

While this invention has been particularly shown and described withreference to embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilledin the art that various changes in form and details may be made thereinwithout departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as definedby the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An electronic device for executing a plurality ofapplications, the electronic device comprising: a display; and aprocessor configured to: based on receiving a first user input, displaya first window comprising a plurality of number keys on the display;based on a second user input selecting one of the plurality of numberkeys in the first window, display the first window and a second windowtogether on the display, the second window comprising a list ofapplications executable in the electronic device; based on anapplication being selected from the list of applications in the secondwindow, map the selected application to the selected number key; afterthe selected application is mapped to the selected number key of theplurality of number keys, receive a third user input corresponding tothe selected number key; and in response to receiving the third userinput, perform a first function associated with the selectedapplication, the first function being different from a functionassociated with another application mapped to another number key of theplurality of number keys.
 2. The electronic device of claim 1, whereinthe processor is further configured to: perform the first functionassociated with the selected application based on a duration of thethird user input being longer than a threshold duration.
 3. Theelectronic device of claim 2, wherein the processor is furtherconfigured to: after the selected application is mapped to the selectednumber key of the plurality of number keys, receive a fourth user inputcorresponding to the selected number key; and in response to receivingthe fourth user input, perform a second function different from thefirst function, wherein a duration of the fourth user input is shorterthan the threshold duration.
 4. The electronic device of claim 1,wherein the processor is further configured to display, in response tothe selected application being mapped to the selected number key, anicon indicating the mapped application with the remaining number keys ofthe plurality of number keys.
 5. The electronic device of claim 4,wherein the icon is displayed in the selected number key.
 6. Theelectronic device of claim 4, wherein the icon includes a numbercorresponding to the selected number key.
 7. The electronic device ofclaim 1, wherein the second window is displayed adjacent to the firstwindow.
 8. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the first windowoverlays an image displayed on the display.
 9. The electronic device ofclaim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to: in response toreceiving the third user input on one of the plurality of number keys,determine whether an application is mapped to the inputted number key,and in response to determining that the application is mapped to theinputted number key, execute the application mapped to the inputtednumber key.
 10. A method of an electronic device for executing aplurality of applications, the method comprising: based on receiving afirst user input, displaying a first window comprising a plurality ofnumber keys on a display of the electronic device; based on a seconduser input selecting one of the plurality of number keys in the firstwindow, displaying the first window and a second window together on thedisplay, the second window comprising a list of applications executablein the electronic device; based on an application being selected fromthe list of applications in the second window, mapping the selectedapplication to the selected number key; after the selected applicationis mapped to the selected number key of the plurality of number keys,receiving a third user input corresponding to the selected number key;and in response to receiving the third user input, performing a firstfunction associated with the selected application, the first functionbeing different from a function associated with another applicationmapped to another number key of the plurality of number keys.
 11. Themethod of claim 10, wherein the performing the first function iscomprises: performing the first function associated with the selectedapplication based on a duration old the third user input being longerthan a threshold duration.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein themethod is further comprises: after the selected application is mapped tothe selected number key of the plurality of number keys, receiving afourth user input corresponding to the selected number key; and inresponse to receiving the fourth user input, performing a secondfunction different from the first function, wherein a duration of thefourth user input is shorter than the threshold duration.
 13. The methodof claim 10, further comprising displaying, in response to the selectedapplication being mapped to the selected number key, an icon indicatingthe mapped application with the remaining number keys of the pluralityof number keys.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the icon isdisplayed in the selected number key.
 15. The method of claim 13,wherein the icon includes a number corresponding to the selected numberkey.
 16. The method of claim 10, wherein the second window is displayedadjacent to the first window.
 17. The method of claim 10, wherein thefirst window overlays an image displayed on the display.
 18. The methodof claim 10, further comprising: in response to receiving the third userinput on one of the plurality of number keys, determining whether anapplication is mapped to the inputted number key; and in response todetermining that the application is mapped to the inputted number key,executing the application mapped to the inputted number key.